This is it: the last hottest news stories of the year! Unless something major drops next week, this is it for 2014. So let's see how things go out this December. Looks like the iPhone 6 is continuing as a juggernaut in the marketplace, and — good news — the order turnaround time is down to one day. Meanwhile, looks like Samsung continues to stumble, Apple Pay is going abroad, the Apple Watch is inspiring others, and Apple is having successes all around. Those stories and more below the fold at this year's end. Happy Holidays to all our Mac|Life readers!

Hanukkah has already started and Christmas is almost here, but what if you’re still looking for some affordable gift ideas? Don’t worry; we’ve done the tough part and come up with this list of 10 stocking stuffers for the Apple fan in your life. Unlike some such lists, these are all items that you can actually fit in a stocking, and, better yet, they all clock in at $25 or less. From chargers to organization solutions to hardware accessories, you’re sure to find the perfect low-cost gift.

Winter is upon us, and with it comes the holiday traditions. We come back to our routine year after year because it's comfortable and we've created a precedent for it, but there comes a time to update those customs. We can help you bring the old holiday tales you’ve come to know, love, and learn by heart into today's technologically-powered world with the help of eight great apps. These apps put the classics on display in fresh ways on a new platform that’s perfect for reliving the stories, or even introducing them to a new generation. Hit the App Store and make your iOS device part of your holiday tradition.